Mel Gibson and the Jews

His latest lethal weapon? Mel's film promises spiritual inspiration but instead evokes the kind of rage that for centuries past resulted in ruthless acts of retribution.

Soon we'll find out who is more powerful, Mel Gibson or Pope John XXIII.

Shortly before his death in 1963, the spiritual leader of Catholics round the world composed this prayer: "We realize that our brows are branded with the mark of Cain. Centuries long has Abel lain in blood and tears because we have forgotten Thy love. Forgive us the curse which we unjustly laid on the name of the Jews. Forgive us, that with our curse, we crucified Thee a second time."

It was an awesome admission that reversed almost 2000 years of unjustifiable hatred. Christian anti-Semitism, rationalized as fitting punishment for the Jews guilty of the heinous crime of deicide, killers of Christ, was officially declared "a great sin against humanity." Jews dared to hope that the distortions of ancient history which prompted Crusades, pogroms and perhaps -- as many scholars suggest -- even the world's silence during the Holocaust, were finally put to rest in the dustbin of grievously outdated theological errors.

What the Pope declared a sin, Mel Gibson has resurrected as the definitive story of the death of Jesus.

How strange then to now have the 21st century witness the re-birth of a monumental lie. What the Pope declared a sin, Mel Gibson has resurrected as the definitive story of the death of Jesus. Once again the world is told that it was the fault of "the perfidious Jews." In a movie that reeks with gruesome violence unbearable even by Hollywood standards, "The Passion of the Christ" weaves the contradictory threads of the Gospels' accounts describing the last hours of the life of Jesus into a tale that portrays a reluctant Pontius Pilate decreeing crucifixion for "the son of God" at the mad urging of a Jewish mob led by Caiaphas, the High Priest.

No, according to Gibson it wasn't the guilt of the Romans. Pontius Pilate, as the movie sees it, would never have carried out such cruel punishment. Mike Evans, a Dallas minister and head of the pro-Israel Jerusalem Prayer Team, suggested to Gibson that he might add a one-sentence message on the screen after the last scene: "During the Roman occupation, 250,000 Jews were crucified by the Romans, but only one rose from the dead." That would make clear to the average viewer that Jews, just like Jesus, were victims of the same vicious regime. But so far, that message does not appear. It would detract from the theme that runs throughout the film.

Rejecting the views of the Second Vatican Council, Gibson holds firm to his literal interpretation of the Gospels that make Jews the villains of the most horrendous crime of history: Jews "killed God." In one version of the movie, the Jews utter the line that almost begs for retaliation against them to this day: "His blood be upon us and our children!" Whether this scene survives the final cut is still unknown. (It is in fact included in the version shown to Newsweek's reviewer.) But Gibson is confident that whatever he decides will be the will of God. As he's publicly stated, "The Holy Ghost was working through me on this film." And surely not even the healing words of Pope John XXIII can override a harmful conflicting message to Gibson directly from the Almighty Himself!

Keep in mind, this is from the man who admitted to saying about New York Times columnist Frank Rich, who was critical about his film, "I wanted to kill him. I want his intestines on a stick. I want to kill his dog."

Most remarkable of all, to my mind, in the storm of controversy surrounding this film, is that it ought to be even more of a Christian issue than it is a Jewish problem. After all, it is the latter-day Church itself, through its spiritual leadership, that addressed this ancient question of Jewish culpability. The former Pope was courageous enough to acknowledge the Church's regrettable role in blaming the blameless. The present Pope, John Paul II, affirmed this confession as he "recognized Christian responsibility for past wrongs against Jews throughout history" and, using the Hebrew word tshuvah, "repentance," asked for forgiveness.

"The Passion of the Christ" suggests that Hollywood is wiser than His Holiness. It offers a discredited version of history that is far more fitting for "13th Century Fox" than a contemporary studio aware of the theology of papal leadership.

Those who've seen the movie (Full disclosure: I haven't yet -- but I've spoken to several people who did, both Jews and non-Jews, Rabbis and priests. I do plan on seeing the film once it comes out and will write a follow up article.) agree that the Romans fare much better than the Jews in their treatment of Jesus. As J. W. Eagan famously said, "Never judge a book by its movie." This is a film that makes the Gospels seem almost tame in their depiction of Jewish evil. Which is why it's so irrelevant to ask the question, "Is Mel Gibson really anti-Semitic?"

I am told it is almost impossible to walk out of the theater without hating the villains -- and the villains are clearly identified as Jews.

Those who wonder whether Gibson hates Jews simply don't get it. It doesn't matter. Take Gibson at his word, if you want to, and accept his profession of friendship. He may like us. But that isn't the issue. What matters is what the film is going to accomplish. Simply put, I am told it is almost impossible to walk out of the theater without hating the villains -- and the villains are clearly identified as Jews.

In a time when religions most need to teach the message of reconciliation, a film promising spiritual inspiration powerfully evokes the kind of rage that for centuries past resulted in ruthless acts of retribution.

Passion plays have a history. Jews knew that performances were almost invariably followed by pogroms. What can we expect after millions of people see this film? Some Christian leaders are offended by the very notion that this may have any relevance today. William Donahue, president of the Catholic League for Civil and Religious Rights, attacks those who express fear of "the unintended consequences" of the movie's critical portrayal of the Jews as "pernicious." So if Jews suspect that history may be a guide to modern times, if not by way of old-fashioned pogrom but in more sophisticated contemporary guise, we're guilty of over-reacting and, worse, of even suggesting that anti-Semitism can again get out of hand.

Make no mistake. Movies create mindsets far more than any other medium. Ingmar Bergman was right. "No art passes our conscience in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep down into the dark rooms of our souls." To sit in a darkened theater and be enveloped by a larger-than-life screen is to feel that you are actually experiencing an event rather than just hearing about it. The Reverend Billy Graham, it's reported, wept bitterly when he watched "The Passion of the Christ" -- and surely it wasn't the first time he heard the story.

No passion play of the past could ever have had the emotional power of actually being present at the Crucifixion -- with the added impact of special effects that have made some viewers scream out in revulsion.

Let me make clear to Mel Gibson: I did not kill Jesus and neither did my ancestors.

Responding to criticism, Gibson denies his intent is to blame the Jews. "It's not singling them out and saying, 'They did it'. That's not so. We're all culpable. We're all guilty. We all killed Jesus."

Let me make clear to Mel Gibson that for myself, I deny any personal involvement. I didn't kill Jesus. Neither did my ancestors. Ironic, isn't it, that the same Gibson who willingly accepts universal guilt for the crime of deicide chooses only the Jews to be singled out as the real perpetrators. "We all killed Jesus," he claims -- but it's just Jews whom the movie clearly depicts as the scoundrels.

Do Jews have a right to share their concerns with those who choose to believe in a different version of history? Can Jews object to an ultraconservative Roman Catholic Hollywood icon producing a movie that reflects his personal bias?

The same freedom of speech that guarantees Gibson the right to make his film as he sees fit allows us to point out what we find so objectionable.

Gibson speaks in the name of Christianity even as he rejects the explicit pronouncements of its highest spiritual spokesmen.

Gibson claims he is guided by a desire to promote "love and forgiveness," while he stresses a stereotype of Jews that for millennia led to hate and retribution.

Gibson publicizes his film as the "historically accurate story" of the last hours of Jesus when its depiction rests far more on faith than on facts and includes scenes -- like the one showing Jewish guards brutally beating Jesus as they take him to the High Priest -- that have no basis in any New Testament source. (Some of Gibson's script is inspired by the visions of two nuns: one in 17th century Spain and the other in 18th century France.)

While the Church has made major strides forward in reaching out to Jews in reconciliation, "The Passion of Christ" takes a giant leap backwards to vicious Jew-bashing and stereotyping. As Holocaust memories fade and scholars note the resurgence of worldwide anti-Semitism, the one thing worse than the "Protocols of the Elders of Zion" in our times is a mass-marketed appeal to religious passion against Jews in the guise of the Gospels.

Regrettably, its very notoriety may well make this movie highly popular. That's why I pray viewers understand the reason "The Passion of Christ" so strongly fails as a spiritual message. Not only is it anti-Jewish and indifferent to the harm it will surely bring in its wake to relations between gentiles and Jews, it is so profoundly un-Christian.

First of a two-part series. Rabbi Blech's second installment will discuss his reactions to seeing the film.

Rabbi Benjamin Blech, a frequent contributor to Aish, is a Professor of Talmud at Yeshiva University and an internationally recognized educator, religious leader, and lecturer. He is the author of 19 highly acclaimed books with combined sales of over a half million copies, A much sought after speaker, he is available as scholar in residence in your community. See his website at rabbibenjaminblech.com.

I thought Mel Gibson was marvelous in Bravehart and We Were Soldiers Once playing the heroic Hal Moore, but his history of anti-semitism shadows his greatness. Though Catholocism is a part of Christianity it has been that part of it that has persecuted Jews over the centuries. The Crusades, Inquisition, and Holocaust, were all Catholic inspired. Hitler as well as others like Himmler and Hans Frank were Catholic. Protestants for the most part have not participated in any pogroms or persecution of Jews. We must clarify when saying it is Christian persecution. I say this as a Jew.

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Anonymous,
October 22, 2012 3:28 AM

I'm ashamed

As an Aussie Australian I am grossly ashamed of the Gibson Family.....this doesn't really represent the multicultural society Australia has become and the spirit of tolerance Aussies stand for. Shame Mel Shame!

(140)
Harvey Sinclair,
August 17, 2010 2:15 PM

Mad Mel

Gibson is just another rabid anti-semite but a high profile one. How many small timers who never make it into policics or film have we met in our lives. I can count at least three. What they all have in common is they are uncultured, uncouth, and uneducated. Some may have power, money and fame, but all lack the awareness that they have the neshamas (souls) of little more than grubs. I would ignore Mel as he is a hopeless little rodent (sorry Ben and Socrates)

(139)
tommy,
February 8, 2010 8:43 AM

considered evaluation

m. g. is an overgrown pampered brat and -forgive me, I'm riled - a no good punk who has never met anyone he really didn't like. I know because he still has his dimples.

(138)
Paul Tenenbaum,
August 31, 2009 7:42 PM

Gibson

Read his background and who is father was. From childhood on the so called "misdeeds" of the Jews like killing Christ were inculcated into his brain and this happened to many Christians. It is what children are taught repeatedly, that stays always and hence the hatred of the Jews. In the interim years other myths were brought up and repeated -see the Sweden story. When teaching the cathechism is completely changed, then I will believe that the Church wants to respect the Jews.

(137)
Billl Waymans,
January 29, 2007 12:56 PM

Gibson is obviously a anti semite and anti Isreal. Too blame this all on alcohol is baloney

His Father was a nazi and the apple doesnt fall far from the Treee

(136)
Scott,
November 23, 2006 4:13 PM

Get over it

There is nothing that this man said that differs from the thoughts and actions most of our people have implemented upon black americans and latinos. Hate perpetuates itself it is man kinds nature. To judge this man for the thoughts many of us have had in our own minds towards others is unjustice. We are all guilty of this. Spare us all of the politically correctness. We all are human and fail to meet the standards of the "Politically Correct" You know I am sure there are some of you that believe this persecution is just. What I do know is its time like these we learn to live again and give again! We are all human!

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Anonymous,
August 2, 2006 12:00 AM

MEL GIBSON IS AN ANTI-SEMITE

HE SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF HIMSELF. WE ALL KNOW THAT ALCOHOL IS LIKE TRUTH SERUM! AS OMAR KAYAM (sp) WROTE, "THE MOVING FINGER WRITES....." I WILL NEVER SEE ANOTHER MOVIE IN WHICH HE APPEARS. MY JEWISH FRIENDS ARE ALSO OUTRAGED. HE WILL BE SORRY FOR HIS CRUDE, HORRIBLE HATE-MONGERING STATEMENTS.

(134)
Terri Murphy,
August 2, 2006 12:00 AM

Mel Gibson drinking is tragic. Howeverthe publicity on his DUI is unimaginable. Alcaholism is a disease an an unwanted torment for anyone. Everyone should not throw that stone so quickly. Unless one has gone thru this hell do not comment so harshly.

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Roger Buechler,
August 1, 2006 12:00 AM

I support Mel even when he blunders, his heart is right.

I would like to go on record of supporting Mel Gibson. He is a man and he will make mistakes. But he has done the world a great favor by making the "Passion of the Christ." Rise up Mel, try again.Sincerly, Roger Buechler

(132)
Frank Martin,
July 31, 2006 12:00 AM

Jews are responsible

Congratualations Mr. Gibosn, The Jew's are responsible for all the problems in the world. Get rid of the Jew's and the problems will immediately go away. Then we can all live in real peace. Until then, there will be no peace in the world and we are all doomed.

(131)
Anonymous,
July 30, 2006 12:00 AM

Anti Semitism

Mel Gibson's recent anti semetic comments which he spouted when drunk didn't come out of the air. It is obveiously what he thinks and as far as his Anti Semitic Father the apple doesn't fall far from the tree!

(130)
steve,
February 25, 2006 12:00 AM

question of jews and crucifixtion irrelevant

The question of who killed Jesus is irrelevant. Early Christianity was considered Jewish for centuries and most of the converts to Christianity were Jews before the adoption of Christianity by the Roman Empire very late in history. Christianity didn't have a distinct identity until probaably the 4th century AD when the Byzantines built the Church of the Holy Seplechur in 325 AD. In fact the real struggle in Christianity's formative years was to purge the cherished traditions of Messianic Jews out of the fnew faith which still contained old practices despite the acceptance of Jesus as the Moshiach (Messiah). This tends to show how the issue of who killed Jesus was pure latent politics by non-Jewish Christian potentates for invidious purposes. It should be disregarded by Christians as an issue today as per the real history as well as Vatican II of 1965 which Gibson willfully and deliberately ignores!

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LP,
November 12, 2004 12:00 AM

Mel Gibson's passion

Dear all,
First of all, forgive any mistake on my english, if far to be perfect, so I thank you in advanced for your understanding.
About the movie,I think it is cruel, maybe in the times when the story happens that cruelty is more believable than other movies, but I think some of the violence of the movie is not necessary for the story and could have been not so "extreme" especially in the second part of the scene when Jesus is tortured with sadism by the Romans. Regardind the Jews, I want to believe that people is more intelligent that you suggest, I'm christian, but I do not hate Jews, less for something that happened 2000 years ago, more than that, I never judged the jewish people for that. Jews were never responsible for that, and watched the movie doesn't changed my mind. If this has happened in another country (any country) the final history would have been the same, cause our politicians and our "churches, sinagogas or whatever name you gave)would have done the same. Everybody must respect your opinions but always within the respect.
Well I don't want to extend to much this letter, but one more thing: Nobody should judge a whole people for the acts of a small group, never, nor for religion, neither for where they come from. I guess both parts are overreacting, and that just gives more publicity to the movie.

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Robert Watts,
October 25, 2004 12:00 AM

Having seen Mel Gibson's portral of William Wallace (Brave Heart)which historians find inaccurate,an event that took place not to far back in history.You would not expect him to
be accurate on a event that happened 2000 yrs ago.
I must add,I have not seen the film,and being a Catholic I do not care much for these kind of films
Regards
Robert

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Patrick Hurley,
March 25, 2004 12:00 AM

Is the sky really falling?

Well, the movie is out and has been viewed by millions. I haven't heard about any calls to punish Israel by'self righteous' mobs of avengers!Why do Jews vehemently denie any culpability for what they did to this Jesus? Sounds like 'chicken little' is alive and well in this article. I love Israel as much now as I did before I saw this movie. Nothing has changed in my heart concerning National Israel---I still pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

(126)
kathy,
March 14, 2004 12:00 AM

i came back to comment again!!

again i am here to say "not all people are hateful". I have the most interesting family,my whole family is made up from all over the world,We are proud of who we are and love each other for not the people we are on the outside but "who we are on the inside".I guess iam one of the lucky ones to learn to "love not hate".I still do not see hate in this movie..maybe iam missing something or again i got lucky.

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Nelda Mendez,
March 6, 2004 12:00 AM

This is how things get started.......never again

Mr. Gibson cant deny his anti semitism.
Sometimes freedom of speech can be our wort enemy....things to ponder.....The power of movies in society is great....people will beleive what is in the movies....how very sad....I ask a "retorical" question: Jesus was a jew, do you think that he would have liked for his jewish brothers and sisters to be killed and ostrasized in his name????I DONT THINK SO !!!!!

(124)
Anonymous,
March 3, 2004 12:00 AM

I visit your website often, I find it very beneficial to my spiritual walk. I do read with an open mind, and I do try to apply, and since I have been doing that have found myself in a more peaceful state of being.
I believe in love for everyone,I so many times sit and ponder and cry asking why can't people just love one another, why can't we all just get along? I haven't seen the movie yet, but I will, but I won't look at Jews with anything other than love. Now whichever or whatever we all believe and build our life on in this life, one day when this flesh dies we will know what is truth. I look at what you already practice, and I see the teaching of Jesus, and that is the thing he came to us to teach. I am very saddened to even think that this movie is causing anger and hatred. These people with these attitudes of anger and hatred are blind,and going around in the dark trying to blame others for things inside them. People need to stop blaming and take accountability, I question if they even know who God really is. Since the beginning of time, with Adam and Eve humans have always tried to blame others for thier faults, and short comings. All things happen in a perfect plan that God has set about us, I believe that nothing happens out of his control. We as humans can never understand God's way of doing things, or even why things happen. His thoughts are above our thoughts and his ways are above our ways. So why do people even question it or get in an uproar about it. As for Mel's reasons and convictions and intentions for making this movie they are his own and he alone has to answer for it, I have to answer for me. I don't think it is Mel's views or his vision that is setting about all this hatred and anger, it is this unseen dark force in this world, we call it satan, it is that unseen force that drives each and every one of us, but it is really called us, our flesh. If you know the truth and believe the truth then why worry and fret about what these humans are going to think and believe about you? Do you believe God is in control? If I truly believe in something, and stand behind it, then it shouldn't matter what others think, or say, you can't control them and change them, all this is just causing negative powers in your life. I won't try and make you believe what I do, cause that would become control. There hasn't been this much stir up of anger and hatred since 911. Which then achieved what the darkness wanted it too. We humans are nothing more than players in this game called life. You know if humans had the knowledge they think they do, they would see, what it really is. Hey I am including me here. I believe the bible says we see as through a glass darkly. Something like that.

So okay go ahead and disagree, it is alright to. All this is very simple, so simple humans look over it, make it too hard, I pray that all humans everywhere would have thier eyes opened and truly see the truth, well see as much of the truth as our minds can comprehend, if they saw the truth then they would know it wasn't the Jews, that killed Jesus. At the point that we cross from death to eternity, then we will know.

Your disagreeing with me is not going to bother me, none of us are alike. If we were we would all be programmed robots, instead of free will agents. It is not what happens in this world, it is how I react, it isn't Mel's movie, but how I am reacting to it? My Mother use to tell me that if I couldn't say something good about someone to say nothing at all. Great philosophy.

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Susan,
March 2, 2004 12:00 AM

The sign has been removed

If you go to www.lovingway.org you will see an apology from the pastor of the Lovingway church. He states that the sign was not meant to promote anti-Semitism, but was meant to encourage others to "search the scripture and read the story for themselves." He says that the sign has been changed.

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ED GARRISON,
March 2, 2004 12:00 AM

MEL -- ADD YES 250,000 JEWS DIED..... THEN AND NOW WE SEE B O T H GOOD & BAD ROMANS, PRIEST, AND CITIZENS . WE ARE ALL RESPONSIBLE , MY FRIEND .

TRIED TO SEND A GOOD SUMMARY BUT KICKED ME OUT 12 TIMES --- NEDD TO HAVE E-MAIL ---- AND I DID THE 1st TIME . TRIED EVERYTHING ....... AGAIN

(121)
betti miner,
March 1, 2004 12:00 AM

astounding!

I don't know what those two nuns were drinking or smoking in regard to the death of Jesus in their "visions". Thank you Rabbi for your thoughtful insight of the Mel Gibson movie. Shame on him for his threat of the New York Times columnist, Frank Rich. To want to injure someone and his dog is too much. That is not what the Christian beliefs teach. I know first-hand as I was raised a Christian but chose Judaism along with my husband 11 years ago and have never regretted it for one moment.

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Reuven Grosz,
March 1, 2004 12:00 AM

Nothing new

Sorry to say it, but there is nothing new going on here. Gibson`s movie is just a wake-up call. We better wake up and understand that times are not changing. Not in Europe, not in U.S. and not in Israel. I haven`t seen Gibson`s movie, because I live in Eretz Yisroel. I`d like to ask everyone to NOT TO GO TO THIS MOVIE!!! Spend your money on better (more yiddish) things - charity etc.
We (my wife, baby and I) are supposed to visit my grandparents in the US soon, but frankly I`ve lost all cheishek to travel anywhere.
It must be hard to be now Jew in the US. So, keep strong, daven and learn Torah.

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Anonymous,
February 29, 2004 12:00 AM

Don't go to the movie

There's no point in going to see the movie to get an objective viewpoint. We all know what the movie is about and another ticket sale is another dollar in Gibson's pocket. If nothing else, this has been a brilliant marketing campaign, but more importantly WHAT CAN WE DO? We all know that everything that happens is for a reason. What's the message here is what we should be asking here? Nothing happens to the Jews by coincidence. If another wave of anti-semitism is pushing through maybe we're failing in our mission of being a light onto the nations. Why not treat this tragedy the way our forefathers dealt with theirs? Think of the miracle of Purim masquerading behind a sequence of "coincidences" was triggered by the Jews doing what they're supposed to do, reaching out to G-d. Sometimes we over intellectualize because the Torah has sharpened our brains when really all we have to do is be "tamim" innocent with G-d. Let's stop panicking and start looking into ourselves how we can each be better people, better Jews.

(118)
Ariel Obadiah ben Abraham,
February 29, 2004 12:00 AM

I fear...

I fear that it has already started. I live in Taylor, MI. I am a convert (as is my family...we converted as a family). In the past several days swastikas have begun to appear on the street that I live on...and some of my neighbors have begun to make comments. These are people next to whom I've lived for the past couple of years. Yesterday a dead cat was thrown on my front lawn. I'm afraid to let my kids play in the yard...

I am a former marine and fully believe that all Americans have the right of free speech. However, you have responsibilities along with those rights. You don't have the right to hurt others, or have your words spur others to act evilly on your behalf. I think that MG's movie is going to raise much that is ugly. I hope that those who are intelligent and righteous among our gentile friends and neighbors will be able to speak out against those who would spread evil...

(117)
Steve Rios,
February 29, 2004 12:00 AM

Mel's Passion Inflammatory

I have seen the movie and I came away from it thinking that its message leaves one with no other conclusion than the condemnation the majority of Christianity (not all) has used to justify its false witness against the Jewish people for centuries is valid.

I know their false witness is wrong, and that evil men over the centuries have done evil deeds; but this movie's message is anti-Semitic!

The intensely bloody scenes of cruelty by the Temple guards, Roman soldiers, and people vividly demonstrate man’s cruelty and inhumanity to his fellow man. What is depicted in the beating and crucifying of Jesus should not happen to any human being ever!

I was especially disturbed by the scenes depicting Jewish children as demons.

The scenes where Satan is shown in the midst of the Priests and the general public, throughout the movie seem to convey that they are his servants willingly doing his bidding.

The payment of a single coin by the temple guards to local people to come and bear false witness against Jesus. Where did that come from?

I have spent many years studying first century Judaism and Mel’s movie is neither historically or biblically correct.

I don’t know what Mel’s source was for the temptation scene in the Garden. It isn't in the Christian bible.

The embellishment and influence of Hollywood and the anti-Semitism of the historical Catholic Church is very evident. Watching the credits to different people at the end, with the knowledge I have of Catholicism’s history only reinforced the anti-Semitism I witnessed in the movie. Those who aided in the promotion and production of this movie will stand before HaShem and be judged according to their heart and intent. HaShem knows.

I pray that our worst fears are not realized; because many Christians do not read or know what their bibles say about Jesus or the Jewish people. Most (not all) know what they have heard or been told to believe. Most (not all) merely follow and do what they are told to in their different denominations by their leaders. Followers of men rather than followers of G-d.

Knowledge and observance of the Torah and its foundational truth is our best defense against this kind of wrongdoing. I look forward to the coming reign of Moshiach, when all of this will no longer be an issue. Until then may we all pray for each other and thank HaShem for the life breath we have.

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Elaine Nugent,
February 29, 2004 12:00 AM

Gibson Rejects Vatican Two and....

Therefore Gibson rejects the Pope's
pronouncement - that the Jews did not kll Jesus...does't that tell you something about Gibson?

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al,
February 28, 2004 12:00 AM

why should they

Why should non Christians believe that this movie will be anti-semitic, when they have their Jewish radio hero Michael Medved telling them that it is not. I am already hearing anti-semitic comments from people I never thought I would hear them from.

(114)
Joe,
February 28, 2004 12:00 AM

Why not the Romans

We learn that the Jews or mere accomplices not actual "killers of christ. Even most the saints like Mark, Paul, and etc, say that the Romans are the actual killers so why not hate the romans the same way they hate the Jews? I think that Mel Gibson is a retarded anti-semite who should not be put in movies anymore he is spreading the flames of hatred, he is not making our world better. I am only 16 but i know what the message that is being sent through his movie. We (the world) should really find a reason for the hatred of Jews, not excuses but a real hardcore excuse. There is no real excuse, just someone to point the finger on, Martin Luther (1483-1546) (keep in mind not the black Martin Luther ) he was a Jew hater when nearing his end he wrote a pamphlet jesus was born a jew in which he denounced the *blood libel as a slander and blamed the church for alienating the jews. I dont mean to offend anyone Jewish or Christian but Mel's father is a jackass and is a senile biyatch he is like freakin 80 years old and he knows it happened he just has alot of hatred so thats why he is denying everything and he needs proffesional help.

(113)
Jairo Danilo Parra,
February 28, 2004 12:00 AM

A waste of time

Although my summary seems to reflect the opposite, I have to admire that you even take the time to defend our interest. Don´t take me wrong, SOMEONE has to speak out; but some how it seems like we should not even bother. This clown, by making this movie, has enter into a world that no man knows, simply because G-d in his infinate wisdom did not allowed that more than what is written needed to be known. I wonder why G-d did not simply showed Gibson himself what He supposedly showed the two nuns? We would have had lots of more sick details......
Mr. Gibson should remember: "For I will bless those who bless you, and CURSE those who curse you"

(112)
Anonymous,
February 28, 2004 12:00 AM

misguidence

I’m appalled to see so many e-mails about the Pentecostal Church in Denver. I am a Catholic from the New England region recently have viewing the film by Mel G. Any Gentile feeling blame towards the Jewish society for the persecution and crucifixion of Jesus is unfortunately misguided.

(111)
Cam,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

If You Tell the Story, Tell the Truth

I'm not Jewish, but after learning much about the culture & community & religion, I find myself being more & more offended by things I hear being said by others.
I've always been taught to respect others and their beliefs, especially religion, and I feel the "Passion" movie should have been banned. It's nothing more than slander against the Jewish people that's going to be the cause of so much hate. I'm ashamed to call myself a "christian" knowing that a fellow "christian" would be the source of something so cruel & biased against Jews that could possibly unravel all the progress relations that have been made between Jews & non Jews.

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Kim Egger,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

Even I was outraged then.

I grew-up a Christian, going so far as to study to be a minister. When our group studied the last week of Jesus' life, I was so incensed by the behavior of the Jewish people that I literally broke off a long-time friendship with a Jewish friend for months because of it.
This movie, irregardless of the motivation, is going to stir-up the ugliest of the anti-Semitic feelings that lie just beneath the civilized surface of American culture. I grew-up and realized that the gospels were written by Roman citizens for a pagan audience, but the people who see this film will not see the historic context of the crucifixion, only the "blood-thirsty" Jews, crying out to Pilate to kill the "King of the Jews."
I know as certainly as I live and breathe that this is going to send hate and violent people into justifying political, physical, and psychological warfare on the Jewish people. The timing could not be better. The Muslim community is making Israel a monster on the world stage. The under current of hate that is an ingrained part of Europe is reemerging once again in acts of violence and terror against the Jews, and now, the United States, one of the few safe places in the world for the Jewish people is about to be torn apart by those who, like me have grown-up and those who will use this to attack the Jewish community in any and all ways that they can. I only pray that G-d our Father is watching over us. May He send us a Redeemer, soon and in our day. Shalom

(109)
Nathan Jones,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

response to Rabbi Blech's article

I just must say that while yes it is portrayed that the Jews "turned" on Jesus, the Romans were just as much a part of it. I as a Christian have studied and talked with friends of mine who are Jewish. I have a complete understanding of why he was crucified. I know that the things that Jesus claimed went directly against the Jewish belief. I find the Romans horrible horrible torture of Jesus worse than anything. I just think that the Romans had a large hand in it, and that it should be made known in your article. Thank you.

(108)
Avital,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

bible misuse

I don't know how it is with the fellow posters and readers - I have looked up the specific part of the New Testimony that was source to the snippet displayed on the Billboard at Lovingway congregations. I can only say that a man, any man in fact, of the church who so intendedly misuses the scripture should be taken off his position, for he deeply lacks understanding, also historical understading, of the matter.

Thank you Rabbi Blech for this article. I am looking forward to reading part two.

(107)
yossi,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

Being an Israeli Baal Tshuvah film director

I am waiting for that day (hopefully befre Mashiach will come) that some one will invest in high concept and high profile Jewish films.
The christians are putting Mills in feture films and this is not the first films to attack Jews concerning Jesus.
about 25 years ago they shot one in Israel starring leading Israeli actors,Jews were as bad looking as possible.
Lets use the media,we have the man power to do it right.

(106)
Anonymous,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

freedom of speech

One of our greatest American statesmen is frequently quoted as having said, "I may not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." Certainly if this principle and privilege is to apply to anyone at all, then it must also apply to Mel Gibson.

(105)
Joel,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

Where are the Arabs in the movie?

Since this movie is receiving so much publicity, let's try and take something positive out of it. Namely, where are all the Arabs? According to Yassir Arafat, Palestinians (but let's call a spade a spade and call them by their real name, Arabs) have been living in Palestine (sic) since time immemorial and the Jews are johnny-come-latelies. However, in the movie, as in history, the only people living in the LAND OF ISRAEL 2000 years ago were Jews (and of course, the Roman conquerors). Jewish organizations should be focusing on this fact! And of course there has never been any historical entity known as the West Bank.

And as has been noted in most movie reviews (I haven't seen the movie nor do I intend to), the only languages spoken in the movie, as in history, are Hebrew, Latin, and Aramaic (although the absence of Greek has become an issue in some circles). And no Arabic.

(104)
René,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

Land of Freedom

Do Jews should be afraid of the raising again of anti-semitism due to Mel Gibson's movie picture ?
Most Probably.

Here in France (in old Europe), we can witness nowadays the most antisemitic movement since World War II.
This is due mainly to few unculturated arab immigrants of second generation falling under islamic propaganda. They seems not to be the majority. But almost all christian or arab intellectuals keep silent.

The movie of Mel Gibson will apparently no be brodcast in France due to opposition of main movies network ditributors. Thanks G...

But we are surprised to discover America being anti-semitic through Mel Gibson and others.

We thought that anti-semistism was a european pathology.
And we are decieved, and we are sorry.

We do love America, for the price paid for D-Day in june 1944 to free us from Nazism.
We do love America for the war they lead, without European support except UK, to fight against terrorism everywhere in the World

We never thought that America could be victim of anti-semistism.

G.. there is no Heaven left for Jews in this World if America become anti-semitic.

I wish America will remain the land of Freedom and Wisdom, like we need it to be.

(103)
Anonymous,
February 27, 2004 12:00 AM

Please, please don't assume this is history

Whether the Christian bible is accurate or not, making a "passion play" is distasteful and insensitive given the historical link between passion plays and anti-Jewish pogroms.

However, I have seen too many comments from Jews that indicate they seem to think this is an accurate historical account of the last days of Jesus. First of all, there are no contemporary accounts of Jesus. There are several historical accounts written in and/or about Judea between the years 0 and 30 CE that have survived until today and not one of them mentions him, so it is unlikely that he stirred up all the hoopla the Christian bible says he did, if he even existed at all. The books of the Christian bible themselves were not written by people who knew him.

The writers of the Chistian bible display a glaring ignorance of the Jewish legal processes. The whole narrative of the trial is very problematic.

There has never been any Jewish tradition to release a prisoner before Passover. Even if there were, Pilate was probably not the type to go along with it.

Pilate was a brutal and cruel ruler as attested to by Philo, Josephus, and even Luke 13:1-3. He crucified thousands of Jews without trials.

The whole story of Barabbas is quite interesting. In earlier manuscripts of the Christian bible and also mentioned by Origen, his name was Jesus Barabbas. For those of you who know a little Aramaic that means Jesus, son of the father. It's also interesting he was accused of insurrection, which is really what the Romans accused Jesus of. If there is any truth to the story, it is most likely that Jesus was arrested by the Romans for insurrection and some Jews tried to get him released. When the early Christians gave up on the Jews and tried to convert the Romans they had to doctor the story a bit.

The "gospels" can't even agree wheter he was crucified on the eve of Passover or on Passover.

This is just the tip of the iceburg. You can find plenty of other information online.

If Christians want to believe on faith that these stories are accurate that is one thing. But for a non-Christian to just accept them as fact is a little naive.

(102)
Pat Baxley,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

Hay for brains...

Anyone who thinks this movie is NOT anti-semetic has hay for brains. I am astonished at the attitudes of many who are so blinded to what can be the aftermath of this movie. It's plain scary! I was told today, by a catholic, that Mel Gibson has left the catholic church and started his own brand of catholiscism. He went back to the way they did it long ago. I guess that's why he goes against the pope's prayer of forgiveness.
May HaShem be with us all,
Pat

(101)
Al in Seattle,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

blood libel

Like many of my Jewish friends who've posted here, I'd like to give our Christian friends the benefit of the doubt as to their good intentions regarding us. However, that does not mean we can or should turn a blind eye to the miscreants among them who will be emboldened by this film to express their hatred.
Just last night, the official release date of the film, CNN reported that a church in Colorado put the following message on their roadside readerboard for all to see:
"The Jews Killed Jesus."
It is the responsibility of the Christian church to weed out the bigots among them, just as it is Islam's responsibility to get their adherents to stop turning themselves into human bombs. If they do not, or at least do not make the attempt, then they are themselves to blame.
I do understand how difficult it may be for them, given, as one writer correctly points out, the new testament itself blames the Jews for the death of Jesus. But I do think many well-intentioned Christians are trying.
Probably not among them are the Roman Catholics who called me a Christ-killer as a kid, me being too young to even know what the heck they were talking about; knowing only that I was not allowed in their home to play with their son.
Hey, their loss.

(100)
Jeremy,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

I called The Lovingway Pentecostal Church on Colorado Blvd in Denver

I called this Church anonymously and spoke with someone there and I asked him if I should go kill some Jews now because of the sign in front of his church because the "bible" also states an eye for an eye a tooth for a tooth. The guy who picked up the phone said we should not kill Jews because they are actually Christians gone wrong. As I was getting off the phone I asked if we should go round some Jews up see what happends to them and he said "yes lets go get get some and see what we can do to them." Scared the heck out of me.

(99)
Anonymous,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

Anti-Semitism is not always a fitting term

When a mother batters her child, we call it abuse. When a husband beats his wife, we call it abuse. So why is it that when a non-Jew is violent towards a Jewish person, we call it anti-Semitism? Surely we need to call a spade a spade and say it is abuse.
Anti-semitism is a term that confuses the issue. It gives the act a sophisticated, almost scientific name,
when actually it only reflects the violence within the abuser. The fact that he choses to vent it against us doesn't merit a different name.
Louisa

(98)
Delores,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

alot of what you have written really hit home with me. I myself will not see the movie, I have no need too. Why would I want to see Jesus treated so brutal. Yes, in these times we need to teach love and respect for people of many colors. I will speak out against this film.

(97)
Anonymous,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

One action reflects

I noticed that some people are offended by the anti-christen seniments. I just want to let you know that they don't mean it personally. They are the ones that had encountered christens who were anti- jews. The Jews are worrying abt the effects that this movie will have and they are really concerned about it. Please understand what we have been going through for 2 thousands years. There are many Jews out there (like me) know that there are some good christens. People judge on their encounterment with other people. This is how people usually judge the Jews by one Jew's actions. Unfortuantely, it happends all the time. One action reflects the rest of the nation. So, Jews, please watch your actions because there is always someone is watching you. And don't forget that HaShem is also watching you.

(96)
Eric,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

An Eye for an Eye...

What I'm struck most about the whole controversy surrounding "The Passion" is the apparent lack of concern, overall, for the safety of Jews worldwide. "The Passion", as it is appropriatly titled, is a passion play, even if those that support it believe that it is the truth. It can only serve to stir already extant feelings in those that are passionate about their faith. Why wouldn't they, after seeing the film, not feel hatred towards Jews!?! Perhaps the feelings are so strong that they may want to take it out on an innocent Jewish student in their high school, or the local Jewish doctor. No segment of the Jewish population is exempt from potential violence. Perhaps then it is appropriate that the movie was to come out after Parshas Mishpatim, which contains the famous line "An eye for an eye, etc." Probably the most misunderstood passage in the Torah, it does not call for an actual punishment of taking and eye, rather most commentators remark that it refers to payment of what the eye, etc. is worth. That is why I propose that if ANY Jew, whether he/she is observent or not, old or young, rich or poor, is hurt as a result of the movie that Mel Gibson himself pay the value of that injury. This would put the weight of the responsibility of producing such passion play squarely on his shoulders. Perhaps next time he will think before spreading his vicious beliefs if he has to dole out millions of dollars. Hopefully, no Jew is hurt or touched as a result of the film. However, I feel that Mel Gibson and his supporters should take responsibility for their beliefs. Sadly, they seem unable and unwilling to be held responsible for their actions.

(95)
Dena Stenberg,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

How do we protect our children this time around?

In 1978(?) a movie came to television called "J. of Nazareth". Very tame stuff by today's standards. I lived in a Minnesota farming community at the time - The only Jew in my school. I'll never forget the beatings I took that week over that movie or the horrid names I was called.

That memory concerned me enough to go see this thing on "ash" wednesday when it came out (without my kindelach of course). The people there were mostly wearing the ash mark, most were elderly whites or African Americans of teen to middle age. I noticed a few children among the viewers. There wasn't any noise in the movie theatre during the film. It was eerily silent; except in two parts.

One part disturbed me more than the other. Kindelach came to check on the welfare of a man in distress. Their faces then turn into "demons" and they chase and torment him until he hangs himself. The only other "demon-like" creature is of course, a woman. Even her baby turns into a "demon".

The symbolism to my understanding is that our children - our precious heritage - are demons in the eyes of Mel Gibson and those who believe like him. Now he will give these ideas to millions of unwitting viewers. This scene of children demons drew great murmurings from the crowd where I viewed this thing.

The second cry of outrage came from the one part where Mel apparently gave in to critics and "toned down" his Jew baiting. Where every part of the movie was sub-titled, only in the place where the Jewish crowd cries out to place the blame of J's blood on all of us and our children, did he suddenly "forget" to add the subtitles. It made not one bit of difference to the angry crowd I sat among. They may not have understood the exact words, but it was clear by the reaction that most had heard or read the "gospels" enough times to very quickly see what was missing and understood completely what was being blamed on our people. They were angry. Not with dear Mel. They were angry with Jews. I felt even more uncomfortable as I sat there, the only obviously orthodox Jew in the theatre. I felt threatened.

I was a young teenager when I was beaten over a stupid movie in the late 70's. This is a true historically biased "passion play" the likes of which would have made Bavarian passion play and pogrom designers very proud. How do I protect my children? Not just people of "good faith" will see this filth. People looking for any excuse for more acts of hatred will see this gruesome anti-Semitic garbage in large numbers. They will be drawn to its violence, and their Jew hating adrenalin will start pumping.

I live in a frum community. Who will protect my sons as they walk down the street as obvious "others", the inheritors of the "crime of deicide"???
I am sorry I brought such tamei before my eyes. But I am also very sure that now I know that this is a dangerous new form of Jew-baiting, not an expression of faith and piety in their "loving" god. May the Moshiach come soon and free us from this galus.

(94)
Anonymous,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

horrifying sign on Co. Church

The Lovingway Pentecostal Church on Colorado Blvd in Denver has posted a sign that says: "Jews Killed the Lord Jesus," apparently a quote from the New Testament. A friend spoke at length with the pastor of the church, asking him to please take the sign down; he has so far refused.

(93)
Baruch,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

Sleeping with one eye open

Agree with all comments made thus far, particualrly about the need for Melvin Gibson to publically address his parents' opportunitistic incitement of anti-Semitism. Mr. Gibson's movie is the gospel according to Melvin. No doubt, the Talmud correctly hits the mark by saying the apple doesn't fall to far from the tree.

In the ned, despite liberal and interfaith dialogue, it shows the the various demoninations heartily swollowing Melvin's gospel, they are swallowing his parent's hatred. We will need to remember we are guests here and to sleep with one eye open. We connot take salice in Solomon HaMelach words of, "this too shall pass."

(92)
Sabrina Adams,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

My Christian Friends do not feel the Passion of Christ causes them to feel anger toward Jews

I went to see the movie. Yes it was blooded. But moreoever, I discussed the movie with many Christian friends and they said that if anything it softened their hearts toward Jewish people. They further said to indite the Jewish people for the death of Jesus would be foolish. They also truly believe that Jesus was not murdered but gave his own life freely. I believe, that this fear is overrated at best. They have a great respect and even love for the Jewish culture and traditions.

(91)
Pam,
February 26, 2004 12:00 AM

a view from one who has been both Christian and Jewish

The advent of the movie was very worrisome to me as a convert to Judaism who had been brought up Catholic. The Jews were definitely cast as the very ugly ( both physically and mentally ) villans in the piece. However, I had expected to feel something for Jesus and yet did not. This could have been any citizen on the cross and not the Christ figure. The beatings were so horrendous and continous that after a while this viewer became innured to the violence. I was not moved either emotionally or spiritually. Let's hope the rest of the world feels the same!

(90)
Vasu from Bangalore.India,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

revealing truths of generations of garbage

yes the institutions like the theatre and holiwood, need to be hyper sensitive to what fires they are fanning, and why. We need to learn to forgive ourselves of the past legacy created by our elders and pave way to reconcile for a world of loving care.

(89)
Jack Forman,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

..... Mel Gibson Knows Not What He Does

I think the appropriate minimum response of the Jewish community in America to Mel Gibson is to say loud and clear to the rest of the world: "Please forgive him, for he knows not what he does...."

(88)
Michael Moroney,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

I hope that good will come of this.

I am a Noahide. A non-Jew who observes the Seven Laws of Noah (Gentile Laws primarily from Genesis Chapt. 9). We believe that religious Jews are the clergy of the world. It is my hope that this event will bring about civilized discussion which will educate non-Jews about the universal (Jew+Gentile) aspect of Orthodox Jewish theology. As well as the scriptural differences between the Tanach and the "Old Testament" which are the root cause of much misunderstanding. However, I am fearful that many are not ready to listen. Jews definately don't hate Christians nor do they actively try to convert them. Jews never believed you had to be Jewish to be saved. I hope this movie will not be used to convert Jews. We've come too far to become divided again. It does my heart good to read the supportive letters of Christians. I pray there will be no anti-Semitic backlash. G-d bless us all!

(87)
Tamar,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

Worse than I thought

Yesterday, I thought maybe we lived in better times, more understanding times, but this morning, after hearing the answers to the question of the day on a local news station program, I am very very worried. Of course the question was whether this movie would spark anti-semetic views. Every single person calling in stated that this movie is not only blatent truth, but that we should use it as a learning tool. If this isn't scary enough, my father heard an interview with a "man on the street" who said he wants to see the movie because he heard that it shows that the Jews are responsible for Christ's death and he wanted to learn about that. All my father said is Oy and I have to agree.

(86)
Anonymous,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

I was raised Christian. I live in a Christian society. For an unexplainable reason, I stumbled on this website 12-18 months ago. I have received unsurmountable peace by reading anything here. I can't explain it but to say I find Truths here. This article makes my heart heavy for our entire world. Where is the love? What is the truth? Why are we really here? What is the true purpose?

(85)
Anonymous,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

The gospel according to Mel Gibson

Ancient christian doctrine's age-old warning, "Beware of false prophets" has never been more than a cliche for deaf ears . Twenty first century society continues its tolerance of self-proclaimed prophets ; It now heeds the gospel of hate according to Mel Gibson.
G-d is one and His name one.
Mary

(84)
Debbi,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

I am PROUD to be a JEW

U have not seen this movie, but is it possible to hear the story of ours and still have any hate. That is like saying what Hitler did was good. How is this possible. I intend to go to this movie just to see if it is possible. I never ditinguish people. I see we azll bleed RED and we all die and we all get to,have a life. But what they did to our people, is the most hideous thing I have ever seen. I am a horror flick person. I happen to like the creepy shows. But when I first got online and went to the photos of the camps and all the things that wsere done, burning, sterilizing woman This was the most horrible thing I ever saw. It is a TRUE story, and there is no way to ever forget. I find it hard to even believe that in the worls today there is still so much prejudice. It has and always will amaze me. I married an Italian man, but he is the most consoderate and lving man. When my son was Bar Mitzahed he was the proudest dad ever. His Mom used to send me these JEWS for JESUS books, records, and tapes aznd she wanted Me to convert. I told her I was a proud jew and even though I did not follow my religion by martying my husband, Love conquers all. All the kids in my house ended up marrying a different faith. But the children were all briught up Jewish. Only my nrother married a catholic girl, and they fought and fought, until they never gave these kids any religion. Anything to belive in their hearts. It was wrong. he made the biggest mistake ever. He regrets it now, and he divorced, and remarried a jewish girl. They had a son. He is now a 7 year old jewish boy, attending temple and he will be bar matvahed. But it is too late for the children. They seem not to care. It hurts me for them not to have a God, and not have anything to believe in. It is very sad.

(83)
Idan Levi,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

Thank You Rabbi Blech

Thank You Rabbi Blech for this great article. This is a terrific article and i agree with it completely. Hopefully, this will not lead to any negative thought agains us Jews and it will not spread more Anti-Semitism.

(82)
Anonymous,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

Not Really

I think that we Jews may bring about more hate upon us if we complain about every little thing the Christians do to project their faith. Let them have this film. I mean, the Italians aren't saying the film is anti-Italian due to the anti-Roman factor. We complain a bit too much for these times. C'mon guys.

(81)
Anonymous,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

Denver church marquee "Jews killed Jesus"

In Denver on one of the busiest streets in town, Lovingway Pentecostal Church has the "chutzpa" to put this up. I spoke to the pastor/minister and he told me to read the New Testament. Can't argie with an idiot. I noticed this afternoon that the TV trucks were parked in front so it will probably be on the evening news. Just the publicity that we all need. Kal

(80)
Shaina,
February 25, 2004 12:00 AM

where to go from here

I think it's important that we Jews be given tools with which to counteract the inevitable accusations that will eventually arise after the film has been seen by many viewers. I have never read their version of what happened to J., and in fact, don't really know OUR version as well as I should. Perhaps a forthcoming article could be put out with basic questions and answers for the general public. Thank you

(79)
Anonymous,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

Bravo!

I too also have gotten the same impression from the talk on this movie I was hoping for so much more And I expected more from Mel!!!But I have found that through the "controversy" many minds are cleansed.And you made some very good points about Roman rule and papal rule for that matter. I don't think I'll take my boys to see it though because impressionable minds do pick up the hate. Keep up the good work!!

(78)
john auger,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

holly wood version of history

Mel Gibsons "Brave Heart", and "The Patriot" both defamed the British and in particular the English, the period of history covered by "brave heart" was a struggle between a norman King of England and a norman King of Scotland, in the patriot 4 colonialists are hung by british troops in actual fact 4 hessian troops were lynched by the colonialists, perhaps it is a bit late to expect accuracy in any hollywood film, The world has suffered rewritten history from Hollywood and American for years, how does it feel to be a victim of this trend, can we now expect accuracy in the future?

(77)
Rabbi Benjamin Blech,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

A comment from the author

I'm delighted that my essay on Mel Gibson's new movie has elicited

such voluminous - and in many cases, heated - response. That is,

after all, the best way to deal with an issue of such great import.

Intelligent dialogue will allow us to achieve the wisdom we require

for a serious and honest response to a film that, it now seems clear,

will have worldwide appeal. Some readers have raised an interesting

question that deserves comment. Yes, as I was careful to point out

myself, I have not yet seen the movie. Indeed, I made a commitment to

Aish to write a second piece after I've seen the film. I will then

have an opportunity to convey feelings based on visceral reactions to

what appears on the screen. My article, however, deals with the very

public aspects of what have been made known to all as subject matter

- what the film claims really happened, how it chooses to describe

Jesus' final hours, as well as the attribution of blame for the crime

that for Christians must rank as the greatest sin of human history

- the murder of their God.

I find especially interesting that those who deny me - as well as

others who haven't yet seen the film - to express any opinions

because we "didn't actually see it" have no hesitation in allowing

Gibson free rein to describe what "actually happened" although

neither he nor even the authors of the gospels, writing many years

after the event, "actually saw" what they described. Indeed there

will be many, I trust, who will have no desire to see a film filled

with horrifying scenes of violence. They still must be allowed to

express their views about the film's contents that are no secret

because they have been so highly publicized. No one argues about what

is actually in the movie. And all of us have a right to disagree with

Gibson's view of history - a view as I point out that goes against

the Pope and the Vatican itself . More significantly, I would think

every person concerned with the potential for an unprecedented

rupture in the excellent relations of recent times between the Church

and the Jews should seriously consider the consequences of a film

that, in today's climate of anti-Semitism, again raises as truth a

libel that was officially abandoned by the Vatican Council. It doesn't

take someone who bought a ticket to take a stand on a modern-day

Passion play.

(76)
Janet Kingan,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

Alarmist Nonsence

Read Ezra Levant's review in the Calgary Sun. What is the big deal about this movie? Rabbi Blech is disingenuous to say "My ancestors didn't kill Jesus"...well no, but the leadership convicted him of blasphemy and had the Romans do the execution. That is history and you can't change it. The New testament has an almost entirely Jewish cast of characters, so it's like an internal battle. Saying it is antisemitic is like saying that if you disagree on internal Jewish politics and issues, you are antisemitic. Your alarmism is more likely to cause problems for us than this movie. See it first and then write a review!

(75)
Anonymous,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

It never ends

Thankyou Rabbi Blech for your work.Well, the movie hasn't been realesed yet and I've been already called a christ-killer by a baptist pastor in Wal-Mart the other day. I refuted him kindly as a Torah observant Jew would, but I was on fire and I saw red inside. My family walk around like we have a bulls-eye on our backs, dirty looks all over. However, we will not hide who we are and what we believe. We live in a city of 180,000 people, 70% of the people are evangilical christians with only 9 Jewish families in this city. Tragically, anti-semitism is live and well in this part of British Columbia. Mel Gibsons movie is to promote love, compassion, forgiveness etc, (matter of opinion). Yet many, not all, will point to us Jews as the evil villans, (what else is new). We are at great unease about this movie and its repercutions. We just pray to HaShem that good comes from this and not more attacks on the Jewish people.
Thank you

(74)
Anonymous,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

we live in scary times and we do not need MGs passion to add fuel to the fire. for those who feel that the movie will not have an affect on those that see it and will not sway them towards antisemetic feelings, let me assure you that even if people try to remain strong against the antisemetic propoganda, the movie can still plant a seed of antisemitism or doubt about jews in their minds. and who knows how that seed may grow. . .

(73)
Eddie Rogers,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

The verdict is yet to come but.

Your words of comment on the potential fall out of The Passion film I believe are true. Knowing what the Catholic system has done in the past not only to the Jewish people but also to other believers in Christ over the ages that most of the world is ignorant I for one am asking a questing in my mind, can a person like Mel Gibson who says he is a devout catholic remove himself of what the catholic church has practiced either openly or under cover for centuries? Well time will give us the verdict.

(72)
Anonymous,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

All the furor over the movie "The Passion of the Christ" is going to accomplish what the producers want most – controversy and huge ticket sales! Never mind History, Dogma, Philosophy or even Human Nature. Consider the possibility this is a very clever plan to generate interest just to get more people to watch what promises to be a very disturbing movie.

If that's the case, it appears to be working - I've received e-mail from Christian friends urging all Christians to be sure and see the movie before Saturday night, in order to 'send a message to Hollywood'. I've also listened to (and turned off) mud-slinging interviews, read compassionate opinions and urgings, and viewed dozens of comments between the mud and the love. Most of the major American networks and several smaller ones have produced and aired "The Making of…" programs with interviews, opinions and film clips. This is a really big issue.
Get over it! It's only a movie, a fantasy based on one specific view of a controversial teacher who lived and died some 2,000 years ago. Move on and don't give "them" what they want most: our hard-earned money and religious/political turmoil. By succumbing to this we give power to others that once lost, is difficult to regain.

(71)
Yoni,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

Good movie

The Passion is a great movie. This coming from a practicing Jew (who doesn't believe the Messiah is Jesus, of course).

It was not anti_Semitic.

(70)
Marcos-A De Barros,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

I thought most part of all this had faded in our contemporary world.

I do not believe Gibson is oblivious to what fruit his movie may give growth to.I wonder if he cares...

(69)
a ferrer,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

thank you

yours is by far the best reasoned exposition I have read. You point out the crux (excuse the pun) of the matter: it doesn't matter what Gibson's feelings or intent were, the film is a dangerous move, may set off many unintended consequences.

(68)
al puglisi,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

pundits

I am completely amazed at the intensity of discussion on this page. I have been following the additional comments for three days now, besides adding a couple of my own. Rabbi, thank you for this article. As a walk-away Chrisitan, reading the comments has helped in my decision of which direction to go in. To all the Jewish people who commented on this site, do not let this be your only forum. Please, be vocal and visible in your criticism of this movie and of other things like it. When we have a president who calls this a Christian nation, stand up for Judaism.
The only Jews I hear on the media are right wing,radio pundits like Michael Medved, who pander to the Christian right. Looking into Judaism after walking away from Christian fundamentalism, and hearing these people, I asked myself "Is this what Jews truly think." It was not until I logged onto Jews for Judaism that I learned different. Please, please, please, speak out for Judaism in whatever forum presents itself, not just on forums like this. Preaching to the choir is useless. And I am not talking about preaching at Christians either, but about talking to other Jews.Israel is a light unto the world, as one of the Christian commentors said on here, and Jesus said "A man does not hide his light under a bush." Websites like this one have been a light unto me, but that is because I went searching.
This movie threatens to destroy all the progress toward truth that sincere people have made. Myth is presented as history, and the Jews once again made the scapegoat.

(67)
Ryan Shell,
February 24, 2004 12:00 AM

A Response to Some Readers' Misunderstandings

It’s disheartening to read some of these comments, so I will respond to some of them.

Ezir- The article is not lashon hara. Basically, you claim that we must give people the benefit of the doubt if we did not personally witness the event. So should those in America during the Holocaust have ignored the reports of what was occurring in Europe because the Americans hadn’t actually witnessed it? In this case, there are numerous published interviews with Gibson, cast members, and those people who saw the screenings. The details of the movie that Rabbi Blech reacts to are the accepted facts that these interviews have revealed, and not mere assumption.

Vonnie- Thank you for reminding us that those who hate Jews aren’t true followers of Jesus. However, whether Christians remain true to their faith is not relevant. What’s important is how people will react to the film. The question is this: did Gibson do a RESPONSIBLE job? For example, why did he choose to show so much “blood-and-guts”? Peoples’ initial reactions to the film included phrases like “gut-wrenching,” “very bloody,” etc. If the film was about hope and salvation, why was this not mentioned? For example, think of a movie you recently saw. As each day passed, did cameras show the main character rising from bed, using the bathroom, brushing his or her teeth, showering, and getting dressed? Unless the main character’s hygiene habits are crucial to the plot, the answer is no. Why? Because it’s not important. In retelling the story of Jesus’ death, the important messages of hope and salvation should be emphasized instead of the bloody, disgusting aspects of an event that has historically and even today been blamed on the Jews, coupled with numerous aspects that are not universally recognized as truth by leading Christian theologians.

James Kelly- Why do white supremacists hate Gibson? Because he’s Roman Catholic. White supremacists hate anyone who is not a white Protestant.

Dan Barnaba- Jews do not feel that they are better than anyone. We believe, as the Bible indicates, that we are different. While “separate-but-equal” was an absurdity of American racial politics a few decades ago, it does exist (in an obviously different context) in the minds of Jews. The focus of Judaism is to worship G-d. Through that, we are commanded to respect our fellow Jews as well as our gentile neighbors. It’s disheartening that you (and so many others) misinterpret statements made by Jews as being Anti-Christian, and I can certainly understand why. However, I respectfully ask you to give a little latitude to a people who have been so trampled on, beaten, and down-trodden throughout history. We are not anti-Christian … we are simply against the actions of those who threaten to arouse anti-Semitism.

(66)
Isaac Clarkson,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Mel Gibson

Rabbi Blech I think you underestimate the love and kinship americans have for our Jewish friends. This movie does not open to the public until Feb. 25th. The limited pre release viewers are mostly politicians and Holywood types who in most cases are anti religion. As Mel Gibson pointed out in his interview with Diane Sawyer and I quote "we, all of us killed Christ" Gibson is a Christian who is deeply divoted to Christianity and loyalty to Gods chosen people the Jews. Please wait and watch the movie before you pass judgement. You mentioned "his holiness the pope". Have you forgotten the part the Catholit church played during World War II. Jews were hung out to dry because of Romes timidity and lack of courage of it's convictions. This film re enforces our faith and wether or not you realize it or not the stronger our religion is the stronger our willingness is to fight for our Jewish friends. I would love to hear a reply from you. Your friend in America. Ike

(65)
Michal Tamar Miller,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

nothing new here

I'm puzzled by the ourtrage over "The Passion," especially when most of the "critics" have never seen it. Has anyone ever read the Gospels? Hello....most Jews would find it anti-Semitic. There are no surprises in this movie. So the Vatican "absolved" us from killing Christ. They can't change the text of the Gospels; it is still there!

Christians have been our best friends in our struggle with radical Islam. How does the Jewish community repay them, but with a slap in the face. It's only a movie, albeit an important one for Christians. Let's respect their faith (however much we disagree with their theology) as we wish them to repect ours. Really folks, you're barking up the wrong tree. Our enemy is Ishmael.

(64)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

When I first came to this country, I worked in an office. One evening as I was working overtime, out of the blue, the supervisor said "why did you kill him? I turned around to check if there was somebody else, after all this was the first time I was accused of killing somebody. Obviously I was the only one present and I said on an amused tone: "i did not kill anybody". Then he said "you know what I am talking about, to which I answered: "of course I do and it is none of your business, it is Jews killing another Jew, so he went on: "but he was a good man". Right, he was a man and a good man, remember, he was a Jew, it is what came after him that was evil.

I do not have the victim mentality and did not have the inclination to justify myself or the Jewish people as we often do when the accusers never even recognize the crimes perpetrated against the Jews in the name of Jesus.

One word to Ezir: What world do you live in? I'm sorry for being blunt, but while you do not want to speculate and do not want the bashing of this movie and mel gibson, the lashon hara against Jews would have spread worldwide.

and to the next reader who accuses Jews of being anti-Christians therefore he will not support Jews anymore, should we be grateful to him for walking on earth? some humility would not hurt him.

(63)
M. Ivanov,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

What is the real problem....!

People are talking about this movie as if it were to be the first time in history when it is told what the Jewish court decided to do about Jesus. However, this story is 2000 years old and every so called Christian nation knows exactly what Caiaphas and the other priests decided and how it all ended. This is not any news.

Do people seriously think that one movie would encourage normal Western people today to descend to the primitive level of the Middle Ages and to start running after Jewish people screaming "you killed Jesus"? Do people really think that the believing Christians today can't understand that acting like that would be against all Scripture and G-D's will? This article makes you think that ALL Christians are like cattle who are not able to think and can be led anywhere. Many at the moment are talking about Christians in the same way as the anti-semites who say: "all Jews are...".

In the country where I live, the Evangelical Christians support Israel MORE than the local Jews here in EVERY WAY. Do you think that these Christians would suddenly change their mind about everything after seeing a Hollywood movie?? Never ever. I can see them rather DOUBLING their prayer and support for Israel after seeing the movie of Mel Gibson.

Dear Jewish people, your problem is not this movie. Your problem is the world media that every single day twists the events in the Middle East and makes the Jews look horrible and in this way turning people around the world against Israel.

Much respected Jewish people, your problem is not this movie, but the fact that YOU have not turned to your G-D as a nation. The most of your nation lives exactly like the GENTILES around you, not respecting the mitzvot of your G-D. Your G-D has said "Oh that My people would hearken unto Me, that Israel would walk in MY ways! I would SOON SUBDUE their enemies, and turn MY hand against their adversaries." (Ps. 81:14-15) I personally know more Jewish atheists than G-D-fearing Jews. I bet G-D is not happy with this.

Dear Jewish people, your problem is not this movie, but the Muslim fanatics and terrorists that continue to blow up your little beautiful children in buses, like in Jerusalem yesterday morning. Do you think Christian fundamentalists would start doing that after seeing the Mel Gibson movie? I seriously don't think so! I consider myself a fundamentalist Christian and I love Israel and every single Jewish person who has ever lived, especially Jesus.

Like many others who anxiously wait to see the movie, I would rather choose to be opposed by some Scripture-ignorant "so called Christians" than ever raise against the nation of Israel, chosen by G-D. G-D bless all Israel! Period. :)
Let's pray that the movie truly affects the people as it should, telling them about faith hope, love and forgivness.

Micki - student from Finland

(62)
Rodrigo,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Sometimes We Need A Reminder

I personally couldn't care less about the movie, Mel Gibson or even his father. Albert Einstein said "It is far more difficult to break a prejudice than an atom", so I don't think seeing a film will make anyone hate us or love us more than before. The only thing I am concerned about is if there is any kind of violence directed at jewish individuals or communities in the galut. G-d forbid, anyone gets hurt, it will be proof that there is no such safe haven for jews, so we would all better be in Israel than outside. At least, here we can defend ourselves. I hope it does not have to be this way, but any kind of violence would remind us we must come home.

(61)
kHEIR MARIA,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

MEL GIBSON

MEL GIBSON IS JUST AN ACTOR. CANT THIS FILM BE BOYCOTTED?. I WILL NOT SEE IT. COULD OTHER PEOPLE DO SO AS WELL?
I HOPE I FIND FOLLOWERS. MARIA

(60)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Some people ask why Mel should be judged on account of his father's beliefs. Mitch Albom, the author of "Tuesdays with Morrie" addresses this issue in the Detroit Free Press:
The son must refute father's hateful rants
My sister married a wonderful guy. His father was a Hungarian Jew. During World War II, he and his eight brothers and sisters were imprisoned in Nazi concentration camps. Some were killed in gas chambers. Others were put on a boat that was deliberately sunk.
By the war's end, my brother-in-law's father was the only one left. For years, his wife would find bread stuffed under his pillow, a habit from Nazi starvation.
Every now and then some nut case says the Holocaust was faked. Usually, you dismiss him as pathetic.
Last week, however, a man named Hutton Gibson told a national radio host that the Holocaust never happened, that there were no concentration camps, only "work camps," and that Jews basically made the whole thing up.
Hutton Gibson is Mel Gibson's father.
So this nut case must be addressed.
He must be addressed because his son has made a movie called "The Passion of the Christ" depicting Jesus' last hours. There are fears the movie will stoke anti-Semitism. I have not seen the film yet -- it opens this week -- so I can pass no judgment on it. But I have heard his father. And he needs no movie to spew hatred.
Jews "are after one world religion and one world government" Hutton Gibson declared. He said Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, who is Jewish, should be hung. He said Holocaust museums were "a gimmick to collect money."
In fact, he called the entire Holocaust "fiction." He said Jews weren't killed, "they simply got up and left! They were all over the Bronx and Brooklyn and Sydney and Los Angeles. They have to . . . go where's there's money."
That would be news to my brother-in-law's aunt, another Holocaust survivor who, thanks to Nazi experiments, was left sterile, unable to have children. She still bears a Nazi number burned into her arm.
I suppose Hutton Gibson would call that "a tattoo she got in the Bronx."
Now the elder Gibson is not new to this stuff. He writes books and magazine articles denying the Holocaust and scorching the Jewish faith.
And I am not saying Mel Gibson believes what his father does.
But he needs to say so himself.
Instead, to date, Gibson has refused to fully refute his father. He acknowledges the Holocaust, but says, "Nothing can drive a wedge between me and my blood. He's my father. I love him."
That's fine. But denying hatred does not cancel love. By his own doing, Gibson has put himself on a stage where he has new obligations. He's not promoting a "Lethal Weapon" movie here, where he's a crazed cop who swears and drinks and sleeps with women (all pretty non-Christian stuff, by the way).
No. He has made a deeply religious movie, a lightning rod for Christians and Jews, one he claims was inspired by his faith, including "going back to the things I was raised with."
One presumes his father did some of that raising.
Mel Gibson insists he is not anti-Semitic. He can prove it by declaring his father's words are wrong. How would Gibson feel if his father had been gassed, shot or hung in Auschwitz or Dachau, instead of his luckier fate, enjoying a good, long life hurling insults at others?
The reason Nazism existed is because people lived in denial. If you visit the site of concentration camps today, you will be astounded by how close neighborhoods were to the gates. Yet no one did anything -- even as innocent people were murdered a stone's throw away.
No one asked Mel Gibson to become a spokesman on faith. He did that himself. Now that he has hopped on center stage, he can't simply hear what he wants. He has an obligation to publicly shoot down his father's words.
After all, Gibson said he made his movie because he could no longer deny his faith. Imagine someone denying your existence.

(59)
Tsivya Weisgrau,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Reply to Ezir, Lashon Hara against The Passion

The movie has not been released yet, but enough information about the movie has been released to provide sufficient material for intelligent discussion. An educated friend of mine who is very blunt and earthy and afraid of nothing fully intended to see the movie. However, he watched some clips of it and changed his mind. He said that he was sickened by what he saw and he would not be able to sit through two hours of watching that kind of violence.

If we all remain silent until we fork over our money to see the movie, we will be SUPPORTING it. Afterwards, if we decide it is indeed an incitement against the Jews, we will have, of our own free will, made a donation to anti-Semetic sources.

The intelligent thing to do is to research it ahead of time, dialogue, and make an informed decision based on what was said and who said it.

Supporting anti-Semetic material is not intelligent.

(58)
Fran Huffman,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

I understand both sides of this issue. I was raised in a Christian home and only in the last few years of my adult life learned that my family ancestors were Jews who were persecuted and forced to Christianity or die. I feel that for Christians the film will deepen their understanding of what they believe to be the human attonement sacrifice. I am very concerned about what this film will accomplish when it reaches into other countries who are for more historically and openly anti-semitic than Americans. Many American Christians are supporters of Israel and the Jewish people but those numbers dwindle outside of our borders. Gibson should have done his homework on this one if he is truly trying to convey his faith. History has a way of repeating itself.

(57)
Brad Miller,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Love not Hate ...

Many times I have gone through the seder and looked for a place where there is anything promoting violence and hatred ... I have always failed to find it. Shalom!

(56)
Walter Vaughn,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

The hate has already started in St. Louis

From the St. Louis Post Dispatch, "She believes the film already has inspired a minor bit of vandalism. A 4-by-6 sign outside Shaare Zedek Synagogue in St. Louis was hit Tuesday night. The sign's white letters on a black background normally advertise upcoming services. Vandals opened the glass case and rearranged the letters to read "Christ Saves All."

(55)
Benjamin Rodkin,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Not Necessarily anti-semitic

I suppose I'm alone in thinking that this movie is not antisemitic. True, there are Jewish crowds screaming for Jesus' death, but then again, if the Gospel text is to be trusted (and i'm not saying it should be, but nevertheless, Bible movies are based on the Bible- whether those stories are accurate or not)that IS EXACTLY what happened and after all, 1st century Judaea did not contain Swedes. Secondly, Romans are the ones actually crucifying him, third, it is Mel Gibson's hand that strike's the nail into Jesus' hand ( a statement of his faith that "our" sins killed Jesus) finally, for people who already hate Jews this film will just give them another excuse, but that does not make the film antisemitic any more than Schindler's List or Life Is Beautiful makes me want to go out and kill or hate Germans. We are not living in medieval Europe, most Christians will go and see this film as what i believe it was intended to be seen, namely the Christian notion that Jesus died as a sacrifice for the sins of mankind. I don't expect any pogroms.

(54)
Belle,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

love and respect both ways

I do love my Christian friends who support Israel and the Jewish people and I do love my Jewish friends who also love Israel and support the Jewish people. What makes me tired is having to defend my own Jewish faith against over-zealous evangelizers and over-cynical Jews. The proof of your faith, I believe, is in your actions. I do not think that Mel Gibson is emulating his Jesus because he is not exhibiting charity and understanding. A polular pundit whose book has been optioned by Mel Gibson, Bill O'Reilly has a very pugnacious statement about this controversy . It boils down to "you're gonna be sorry you attacked Mel Gibson" Contrary to the writer who thinks this is a first amendment issue - it's not. there's no State involvement here. However, Mel Gibson has opened this controversy - he has wrongly characterized his sources (he says that they are all from the Gospels which even Bill O'Reilly agrees is not correct)and he allows not even a shadow of disagreement. And he's not doing it for his health. My local theater manager has stated that there is an upfront cost of $3,000 for a theater to just get the film and then they have to give him 70%of each ticket sold. In comparison, an average movie at my local theater costs about $150 up front and 35% of each ticket for a one week run. Theter bookers have said that the costs of the film are unheard of for an independent distribution film. And, of course, Mr. Gibson's corporation has produced many trinkets, books, posters, etc to go along with the movie. Another marketing technique is to pre-sell the tickets through churches and suggest that extra tickets be sold so that church member can take an "unsaved" friend. Now, I may be in a difficult situation to tell a nice lady that I don't want to go to this admittedly violent bloody movie and I am not really interested in becoming Christian.
I am troubled that Mr. Gibson interjects a figure of "Satan" to stand among the represented Jews in the movie and that he totally ignors historical fact of the awfulness of Pontious Pilate and the terror that Rome was reaping upon the Jewish citizenry of that time.
But I am more deeply saddened that this movie and Mr. Gibson's stony heart may drive a wedge between Jewish and Christian friends now when we need each other so much.

(53)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Boycott is Best

I live in New Zealand. Luckily we have a very tolerant country but this issue - Mel's Movie issue - seems to be reducing brain cells and increasing zealotry. While censors in this country have rated the movie R-16 as result of the extreme violence, meaning that no person under 16 can view the film, both the Catholic and Penticostal Churches of New Zealand have launched a public attack on the censors claiming that because of the subject matter - the passion of their 'Lord' - there should be absolutely no censorship, and that all people of all ages must have access to this film. As yet the censors are not budging. The disturbing thing is the willingness of these two bodies which should be upholding their core of doctrine which is surely 'agape', instead are supporting an intentionally devisive and dubiously motivated film. To loudly and publicly support such a controversial and possibly damaging artifact, is not only anti-Semitic, it is surely unchristian.

Shalom

(52)
Leroy Vegotsky,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Thw movie is definetly Ant-Semetic.

I agree wholeheartedly with the above asessment of the Mel Gibson's movie. I really believe that it will spark those individual, who need no reason to future and immediate acts of terror against us.

(51)
al Puglisi,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

congratulations

It is rare I post two comments on one forum. Congatulations Rabbi, not only was your article able to bring out the anti-semites (I don't understand what the Jewish problem is with this) crowd, but it also managed to bring out the anti-Catholics- the "we are the true Christians and true Christians don't hate Jews" crowd. Having been both Catholic and Evangelical Protestant in my lifetime I found this ironically amusing, as if the Catholics read a different New Testament than Evangelical protestants.
Evangelical protestants say they "love" the Jews. What they "love" is that they would love to convert you to Christianity, because as long as on Jew lives that refuses to accept Jesus as the Jewish messiah, Christianity's claim to validity is challenged. They know it.Please, do not buy into their love bombing----- they are wolves in sheeps clothing.
I do not know if Mel Gibson is anti-semitic or not, but I do know that the "new testament" is...and if he followed as he said he did (how is amazing, considering all the contradictions of the Passion episode in the four gospels) then the movie is anti semitic, as is the book.
Please my Jewish friends, stand your ground!
Al

(50)
martin rothman,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

AS USUAL/ RABBI /RIGHT TO THE POINT/THANK YOU FOR STANDING UP /AND NOT AFRAID TO VOICE YOUR OPINION /ONTHE FACTS/MARTY ROTHMAN

(49)
Rachel Alpert,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Are we all created by God?

Dear Rabbi,

When I got the first email which was concern about the movie, my reaction was only positive. If we are a product of God's creation and plan as a "Meitive Le'nivra-av", maybe we have to look at it as a wakening call! One of my Jewish young teacher, shared with us how we see what we are skilled to see!, I see only positive comes out of this movie, but many see just the opposite!, and we all know the verse, "Dai Lechachkima Bermiza!"

"Le'Chaym!"

(48)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Mel HATEson's Hatred Movie

Shalom,
Thaks for this great article.
As an Iranian born Jew, I have seen hatred and how it manifests itself in different forms.
The same hatred that is depicted in this film, was also spread in Iran by the lie that Jews capture and kill a Muslim child and put his blood in Matso as a retitual of Passover.
To naive and unedcated people this sounded like truth and hatred of Jews was flaimed by this.
As a Jew, my understanding and respect, for Chistianity is based on the concept of love and forgiveness.
This movie does the opposite!
My original hopes were that this movie will actually die due to lack of interest in the box office. But with the publicity that it is getting and potential misinterpertation of its message, especially later in the hatred infested countries that are enemies of Israel and USA and civilization, this might cause a lot of damage.
I think that now another movie as a response to this, or an official Chritian message is needed to undo the potential damage.

(47)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Unwarranted criticism of a film by a critic who hasn't seen it

While I just love Rabbi Blech, and respect him enormously, he has jumped on the bandwagon of people who haven't seen the movie, but feel they must become a film critic anyway. It's no surprise that the gospels suggest Jewish power motivated the Romans; it's also in our Talmud that this guy was commiting heresy. We sure hate it if goyim start criticizing OUR texts--this is a film by Christians, for Christians about their guy--and I'm afraid Rabbi Blech and the other alarmists in the Jewish community will be eating crow (were it kosher) after "The Passion..." is released with no negative impact for us...except their looking stupid.

(46)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

A Mad Man

Mel Gibson likens himself to a prophet, "G-d speaking through him", this is clearly crazy talk! the scariest part is that this Actor turn Mad decided to air his "interpretations" on a movie screen. unfortunately there are many who share Mel's sentiments about the Jews, but do not have the means or fame to express it. this is very scary, I pray nothing bad will come of it!!

(45)
Harold P WIttcoff,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Rabbi Belch has it right. There are alot of ignorant people out there who will take the points of the movie as literal truth despite evidence to the contrary as noted by many religious scholars. People who have not seen the movie yet vow that it shows the truth. The Pope is derelict in letting catholics believe that he agrees with the depictions in the movie.

(44)
Ann,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

wake-up call!

As a former Catholic Christian who converted to Judaism, I know the mindset of Mel Gibson. As a Black American woman who is also Jewish, I can see so much in this. I have noticed that some Jews have forgotten that we are supposed to be a light unto the nations and try to assimilate into American society. But I tell you what I have learned as a Black person that Jews should pay attention to: You are never going to be allowed to forget who you are. NEVER!!!!! Just like I am Black and Jew, you are a Jew. Might as well live the life of one. Mel may have given the "loudest" wake-up call ever!

(43)
Larry Cohn, Ohio,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

A film that should never have been made!

I viewed Mel Gibson's TV interview with interest and it is apparent that he is a distrubed individual with definate prejudices and unfortunately the money to make known, and a willing audience to embrace.

(42)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Everything is anti-sematic nowadays. Was the movie schindler's list causing a renewed hatred for the jews. Did the moses epic cause a renewed hatred, did pearl harbour make me hate the japanese, I could go on forever. You all need to grow up and let everyone come up with their own conclusions. I have not seen the movie yet it is labeled as "brutal", well the last few hours of jesus' death was certainly no country club visit.

(41)
Anonymous,
February 23, 2004 12:00 AM

Couldn't agree more.

What else can I say as you have said it all and far better then I can. I work for a Catholic university. I emailed the priest who is the vice president of mission and ministry a PDF document published by the AJC regarding this whole issue which contains recommendations on how Jews and Christens could handle this matter.

It saddens me to say that he never responded.

I have also queried a number of students ... all who intend to see the movie, they tell me that no one at the university has spoken out against this movie to date. So sad, so narrow minded. I too am afarid that this outragous movie will set jewish christen relations back 50 years or more.

However, I do think that those on the fringes of christen faith will be effected far more than those liberial christens. We will just have to wait and see.

(40)
Anonymous,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Great article!

Rabbi, you hit the 'nail' on the head! I'm definitely going to be printing this out for the people who start asking me questions about the movie. Again, well done!

(39)
Ezir,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Lashon Hara against The Passion

I have been intrigued, as a Jew, by the buzz over the not yet released Mel Gibson movie The Passion. I find myself in disagreement with most of the ADL has to say on the issue and even Rabbi Blech in this article. Is it not the height of lashon hara to bash this movie and Mr. Gibson before it is even released? I’ve been taught that if speech or an action seems more likely to have a negative judgment as its interpretation, it is proper that the matter be considered in doubt, and not a definitive negative. I have seen very few on the Jewish side of the argument follow this, and it is disappointing. The finished product has not yet been released, let us reserve judgment until after it has been in the theatres and we hear of the true reaction of people … not speculation.

We as Jews do not agree with the Gospel accounts…and the disagreement is not new. To single out Mr. Gibson’s upcoming movie and to disrespect the millions of Christians who will go see if for their own spiritual reasons as being anti-Semitic makes us appear to be hypocrites. I am deeply saddened by this hard heartedness and I question whether the motives of the ADL are spiritual at all. The ADL doesn’t like Mel Gibson because he is a member of the Christian Right. It seems that many bashing this movie ahead of its release have not read Leviticus 19:16-18 in a while.

(38)
ChrisLandrum,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Passion

Furthermore, regarding Mel's dad, Hunt Gibson, who cares? The man is obviously a doddering old fool who can't find his rear end with both hands. Fortunately there are more that know the truth about the numbers, than those, like Hunt Gibson that lie about it.
G-d bless Israel, as he always has, and always will.

(37)
Anonymous,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Trues of this time

It's time to the real christians get positioned and the also the true jews.

We know that the accusation of killing Jesus comes from the catholic teachings. We know that these teachings have influence in the christian world as one.

As jews, we must also reflect that not all christians do agree with that. There are a lot of them that are pro-Israel, we know and we cannot ignore it. No all christians are the same.

As so evil is to say that all the jews have guilt in the killing of Jesus, so evil is to say that all christian are jews killers, or at least that they hate jews. That's not the true!

They say that christians hate jews because they killed Jesus. They say that jews hate christians because they killed jews.

We must stop this now! It's our responsability. G'd is giving to us, we who are living in this age, in our generation, the chance to change. We simply cannot fail.

The anti-semitism will get stronger if we dont break the wall that divide us! If there are jews that can believe in christians as real partners for a true peace and convivence, like me, I must admit that there are christian who will support the jews. I do believe in love, I do believe that there are christians who really love G'd and are ready to listen Him.

If we dont talk one with each other, jews and gentiles (christians), we will lose our chance. This is a window that is openned, but if we delay a bit more, this could once again get closed.

May the Holy G'd lead us to His pouporse.

(36)
James Kelly,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Why do the white supremacist hate Mel Gibson

I watched Mel Gibsons' interview by Diane Sawyer. After the interview was over, I went to the white supremacist sites on the web. The comments revolved around their anger that Gibson was a WN(white nigger) and how they hoped the movie would add to their ranks.
I watched brief clips of the preachers on Trinity Broadcast Network and saw them urging their followers to go see Gibsons' movie.
I wondered at how anyone with even an ounce of common sense and even a basic understanding of the Roman Empire, could possibly come to the conclusion that the Jewish Priests of the time had any influence on Pilate.

I guess ignorance has become part of the American dream.

James Patrick Kelly

(35)
Jenna,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Response to "Ezir"

the quote that you site from the bible says not to gossip, but also not to stand idly by while your brother's blood is shed. Yet, you find it so awful that the ADL and Rabbi Blech are trying to protect the jewish community and make us aware of the dangers and flaws in this movie. i, for one, think it's incredibly important that the jews know of this threat that has been proven over and over to incite anti-semitism. According to your theory of 'wait and see' we should have done nothing and 'waited to see' what would happen during the Holocaust. no one is saying that the christians shouldn't have spirituality and love of religion in their lives, rabbi blech says as much, but a movie that incites hatred that has been proven religiously incorrect is unacceptable. i think your response is incredibly naive and you are blinded to political correctness. wake up!

(34)
Anonymous,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

First, I want to say that we Jews should stand together because there is strength in unity

Second, I want to thank those who are supportive of us

(33)
Avraham Sedaghat,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Here's a suggestion

How about this, instead of Jews wasting 2 hours by going to see this movie, instead learn Torah for 2 hours. This way you can bring blessing and truth into the world, which is the opposite of what this movie is doing. Let everybody else go become emotional over heretical philosophies, while we will be involved in G-d's infinite Wisdom.

(32)
Anonymous,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Not the Jews, not the Romans, but our sin killed Jesus

I don't know who you've been talking to, but the reviews I've read said that the film points the finger at sin, not Jews or Romans.

(31)
Anonymous,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Did the Alleged Crucifixion Occur Historically?

In the Koran, Jesus is not crucified but escapes. Another Jew is crucified instead.
In the early Church, a fellow named Basilides taught essentially the same thing. The Vatican, never into turning the other cheek, declared Basilides to be a heretic and murdered him and his followers.
Consequently, a religous Moslem can't logically blame the Jews for killing Jesus because he believes the Koran is inspired by G-d.

Sunday, 02/22/04 common era

(30)
Vonnie Stinnette,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Mel Gibson's Passion

Rabbi ~ I sure understand your fears in light of the history of persecution the Jewish faithful have endured over the years. As one of those conservative, far right Christians you mentioned, I have never viewed the Jews as "Christ-killers". Those you speak of, who spew forth venom and hatred - towards ANYONE - is not a true follower of Jesus. I am sorry you are so angry about this movie, but it's only because you have chosen to misunderstand the real message. It's funny, but I feel the same persecution you mention - both from you, our Jewish brothers and sisters, and also from those who detest God altogether, because I am a Christian. I do look forward to hearing your comments after you view the movie. Personally, I dread going to see it, as it will break my heart all over again - not because Jews killed Jesus, but because I did!!

(29)
Michael,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

After the Passion

The reality is that Gibson's movie will be released. Let us then see what the result is. I cannot and will not believe that Bible believing Christians will look with a hateful eye toward our Jewish bretheren. For some reason Christianity is always equated with Catholism. We that are Christians are not all Catholic. The factor that seems to missing here is how much the love for Christian-Jewish heritage will increase because the awareness, in graphic detail, of how a Jew was the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. If the fallout toward the jews and Israel turn out to be positive and Godly as a result of this film, I hope and pray it be acknowledged.

(28)
al puglisi,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

thank you

Thank you, thank you, thank you for this article. As a former Fundamentalist Christian, I thank you for speaking out against this movie. I cannot conceal my anger when I hear Christian preachers, even in our local paper today, in Albuquerque, (yes I want you to know the papers that are helping to hype this movie) saying that the movie is not anti-semitic. How can this be. The so called "New Testament" is anti-semitic, it was purposefully written to be so by an emerging gentile church, followers of Paul, who had long before left Jesus the Jew behind in the formation of their theology. It was written to take the Jew out of Jesus, written to make Christianity the tree and not the branch.
Thank you for speaking out. Sometimes I think that even I have been more vocal than people in the Jewish community in speaking out against this movie. Please continue to speak out against it, please, please, please...and loudly. I am so tired of Jewish pundits that buddy up to evangelical Christians and pander to them. They are the ones who will be seeing this movie, in droves. One evangelical church here in town, Calvary Chapel, purchased 1560 tickets (reported in the Albq journal) and sold them out to their parishioners. Please, these people try to make themselves out to be the friends of Judaism and they are Judaism's worst enemy. Please continue to speak out, often and loudly.
Thank you.

(27)
David,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

After the movie The Passion -

I understand Rabbi Blech's concern.
But he is basing his assumption that this picture does come across as anti-Semitic upon 'others' feelings, which is at best second hand - as he states;
"I am told it is almost impossible to walk out of the theater without hating the villains -- and the villains are clearly identified as Jews".
I, personally have heard the opposite is true.
I look forward to Rabbi Blech's follow-up review after viewing The Passion.
Thanks and may God's Best Blessings be upon His chosen people, the Jews :-)

(26)
Terri Heinrich,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

This is a profound and fully valid concern.

When our temples and synagogues need to have pylons at their entrances and police to guard their doors on the High Holidays, yet I have never seen the same need at churches, then we have every right to fear the possible consequences of this film.

(25)
Harlan Norem,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Gibson does not realize his simplistic view of the Gospels as 'historically accurate' led him to mistake imagery for fact.

What Gibson does not understand about history makes his film pathetic. His quote from Matthew was written at a time when hostility between Jew and Christian was running high. Some historians doubt the accuracy of Matthew's reporting. I wish Gibson had been humble enough to ask for insights form reoutable theologians, instead of relying on his own literal, fundamentalist interpretation.

(24)
Ina Lynn Jurey,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

HA! (Historical Accuracy)

Accurate historical facts and the documenting thereof form a solid base on which civilized society can assuredly rest. Each individual's morals/ethics are formed from information and teaching whether it be true or false! As for me and my house, give me the truth, not a stylized movie industry's version! By the way, what did Mel Gibson's dad, Hutton, teach his son about the Holocaust (that anti-Semitism was alive and well and that millions of Jews were not tortured and murdered but merely a fairy tale?). To date, Mel has not commented on Hutton's stated ideology. I will not waste my time going to see such inaccurate reporting of history in The Passion!

(23)
Lee Bender,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Hype, not Hope

Last week I attended a fascinating program today sponsored by the Philadelphia Jewish Community Relations Council which featured the Archibishop of the Ukrainian Church. He spoke about several troubling aspects of the Gibson movie, which he had prescreened. What I gleaned from him is that there appears to be some serious dialogue taking place in the Christian world about the Passion, and that right-minded, intelligent, thoughtful followers do understand their history and the implications for misuse and are sensitive to Jew-baiting. He explained that the western church (ie Roman Catholic) tends to focus more on the crucifixion event itself and Jesus's suffering, while the Eastern churches focus more on the ressurection- the hope. He found the version of the movie he saw as lacking, more hype than hope, with little or no time or emphasis devoted to the hope and love part of the story and faith. He viewed this movie as an opportunity to teach and focus on scriptures and study, for his parishiners, make lemonade out of a lemon. I had a comment with question: Jews too have a passion play of sorts, the Passover Seder, wherein we are each instructed to view ourselves as if we personally had been enslaved in Egypt and had been redeemed and freed, so we Jews must recognize the centrality of the Passion for Christians as a deeply important source of their faith. My comment was that were it not for the crucifixion, and any role played by "the Jews" in it, then the ressurection would not have occurred and the Christian religion and faith would not have occurred, so in some way, Jews should not only not be vilified for killing G-d (which I never understood how G-d could be killed anyway), but should be thanked for helping to create this new faith. The Archbishop said that Christianity is an off-shoot of Judaism, that Jesus and all his family and friends were Jews, and he always has considered Jews as his brothers and sisters. I only hope and pray that this movie will not lead to needless violence and hate- which would certainly be contrary to everything Jesus stood for. But even with that, I think we must be on guard for the worst, just in case.

(22)
Cindy Hansen,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Mel's Passion

Shalom Rabbi Blech!

This is the best article I've read regarding the Passion and I agree 100%. I will be sharing it with everyone I know. as I tell my friends why I won't see the movie (my whole church is going) I explain the history of the Passion Plays and the Pograms etc. I have a few friends that arn't going now too. Mels' Passion is not my passion, mine is to love Jews, Israel, and the word of G-d, if it wasn't for the Jews where would I be? I am eternally grateful to them and I will do everything in my power to show love, respect and continued help for G-ds chosen people.

(21)
Tony Z.,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Article confirms the scripture!

Rabbi, I totally agree with you. This movie will definitely cause many to think negatively about the Jews. I recently saw "Pearl Harbor" and by the end of the movie I was having negative thoughts about the Japanesse.

(20)
Richard,
February 22, 2004 12:00 AM

Excellent insight to what this movie will do to set back time.

Why is it that there was no input to the filmaker about the reprecussions this movie will cause and apply the same pressure to Mr. Gibson that all do about Israeli.

(19)
sarala,
February 21, 2004 12:00 AM

wow

that was a very powerful article. this is the point i have been trying to get across to the christain people i know.
the exact point i wantded was the line "Let me make clear to Mel Gibson: I did not kill Jesus and neither did my ancestors." i loved this article. thank you for writing it. i will share it with everyone i know.

(18)
Anonymous,
February 21, 2004 12:00 AM

Thank you!

I have been absolutely sickened, nauseous, at all we have already been hearing about the upcoming release of this movie. It is very good to have a Jewish source such as Aish.com publish an article like this. I have already witnessed several episodes of Christians being very angry and hateful towards Jews, just in discussion and speculation about the movie! This movie already seems like not a good thing; may Heaven protect us.

(17)
Bonnie,
February 21, 2004 12:00 AM

You are braver than me....

...to plan to see this movie. The church that I attend is planning to attend as a group; but, guess what--on March 22nd I am coming with a tour to meet Israel and there is no way that I want that introduction tampered with.

Over a year and a half ago, I met a gentleman who lives in Jerusalem and I peppered him with questions (and still do!) because I have wanted to learn about my Judeo-Christian roots. (This site has been a rich resource and I feed here almost daily). It is not just the questions, but it has been getting to know him as a person, as a soul--it is touching beauty, love and all things honorable and right.

And that is what being Jewish is to me. As I look closer, examine and read, and realize that the most significant people in my life are Jewish, it makes me love and appreciate life more.

As far as this film is concerned, G-d will judge it more fairly than anyone on earth can, and if anyone can do something positive with it, He can.

(16)
Mark Jackson,
February 21, 2004 12:00 AM

At G-ds feet

Rabbi Blech

I too have been watching the interviews and talking to people who have viewed this film and what I have encountered is somewhat different but we are coming from very different places in our respective worship of G-d.

I am a Christian. I was not raised to respect Jews and most of the comments I ever heard concerning the Jewish people while growing up were negative. When I began to study the bible on my own I came to understand a great debt of gratitude is owed to the Jewish people. Not only that but Jews are G-ds chosen people to this very day. I know of G-ds promise in the very pages of the common parts of the Talmude and our Old Testament that promises to bless those who bless you (the Jews) and curse those who curse you. There are many more. I am not alone in this understanding of scripture as it is written. We are not asked, but commanded to love everyone and most especially the chosen people of G-d. I hope and pray this movie brings enlightenment and not division. Regardless of the outcome Israel will find it has a great many more friends in the Christian realm than she or anyone else has ever imagined. We as Christians are charged to love and to stand by your side and we will. I look forward to reading your comments after viewing "The Passion". I will be seeing it for the first time on the 29th of this month. I ask G-ds blessing on you and all of those who surround you.

Mark Jackson

(15)
Linda Rivera,
February 21, 2004 12:00 AM

Israel a light to the nations

I am a Bible-believing Christian. I want to thank every Jew and Israel. Because of you, I too, know Israel's most wonderful God. Because of you, I have the Bible. Because of the Jews, we have God's laws and commandments given to protect us by the God Who cares. And we have human rights and civilization. With all my heart, thank you! The Jews have always shown through Judaism that God is holy, good, merciful and forgiving. You have never done evil in the name of God! Thank you! May all of God's blessings be upon every Jew and Israel for ever.

(14)
raye,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

To view calmly and rationally

This may sound farfetched. In view of the recently exposed scandals about priests molesting young children, it would almost seem that Gibson's film is a way to distract the public from learning about the possible death-rattle of the catholic religion which was based on what? If one delves into history, much of paganism has been retained by the church. Jesus, born Yehoshua, a Jew, had no idea that he would be used as a tool to empower the political aspirations in the guise of religion of ambitious leaders of the times.

(13)
Mark T,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

I am not sure I comletely understand your comments

If at all possible please have someone email me regarding this article. I am an evangelical Christian (one that frequents your site because it is excellent). I have a very close frend (also a devoted evangelical who was able to see an early viewing of the movie) that has very different feelings about the movie, yet neither hatred nor blame are among those feelings. I realy want to understand this perspective, and yes I can see how some could interpret this film as the Rabbi has predicted, yet I know for myself, my family and my friends, it is just a reminder of our OWN sinfulness. Please respond if possible. Thank you Mark

(12)
Brian Petry,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Freedom of Speech: the First Amendment

The ultimate test of the First Amendment is not the acceptance of speech with which we agree ,but rather the tolerance of speech with which we disagree. Clearly, it is difficult to tolerate Gibson's speech, because it perpetrates a harmful, insidious lie which has caused so much harm; however, we must also remember that as a nation we also tolerated THE LAST TEMPTATION OF CHRIST, which many believed to be a serious swipe at Christianity and was actually banned in many American towns. And let's remember this: Hollywood is about producing fiction: is not this yet another story of fiction, a hint of truth (the murder of Jesus) stuffed with a lie (that the Jews were responsible)? My only hope is that it doesn't result in violence as passion plays in Europe have. Indeed, the world seems to be moving backwards once again, with a worldwide rise in anti-semitism, both religious and political, combined with a thirst for barbarism and a hatred for all that is civil, just, kind, and peaceful. Indeed, I tremble for our future.

(11)
Avraham,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

I was waiting for this article

May hashem have rachamim on all of us and may all the bad decrees turn into bracha just like it did at the time of Purim

(10)
galia berry,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Thank you, R. Blech

Of the many reviews I've read about this movie, this is by far the most astute, perceptive and rational. Excellent analysis!

(9)
Ben,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Movie Trinkets

In the NY Post it also showed Mel Gibson's production company also started selling a new trinket about the movie. A large Nail on a leather string to be worn as a necklace. The Post reported heavy demand in a NYC religous strore outlet. But what should we expect from the "religoun of Peace"?

(8)
Tsivya Weisgrau,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

I will not support Mel Gibson

Without making a vow--I fully intend to never again spend a dollar of my money to buy or rent a film featuring Mel Gibson.

(7)
Dan Barnaba,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Stop being Anti Christianites!

This anti Christianites is unnecessary. I have been supporting Jewish people for many years and it seems to me that Jewish organisations are not grateful of Christians support.

You accuse us of being anti Semites when the truth is you are Anti Christianites.

If this anti Christianites continues in the Jewish controlled media, I will no longer support the Jews and Israel in the future.

(6)
Ann,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Well, here's one ex-fan

I just wish that Mel would say something against his dad's statements. That what's most bothersome of all.

Imagine all those dinner time conversations thay must have, ranting against the Jews!

(5)
HB,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Why are you surprised at anti-Jewish Feelings?

There's no getting around the repudiation of Judaism in the Christian Bible, (or for that matter the Koran.) The sentance suggested by Mike Evan that "only one rose from the dead" STILL implies that Jesus is the messiah and Jews are off-course not to recognise this fact. This movie is getting a huge Christian following because it is tapping into this belief. Most people just aren't so up-front about it as Mel Gibson is. Saying "we all killed Jesus" is a poetic way of saying we all need to be "saved", that is to become evangelicals. Don't be fooled.

(4)
STEVEN,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

REINFORCES MY JEWISHNESS EVEN MORE

I AM NOT A "RELIGIOUS JEW"/OBSERVANT JEW. AND FOR THIS WEAK REASON ALONE, THE ONGOING BLOOD LIBEL, ONCE AGAIN SMEARED AGAINST THE JEWISH PEOPLE FALSELY, REINFORCES AND WILL STRENGHTEN MY JEWISHNESS. I KNOW AND FEEL MY JEWISHNESS AS MUCH AS MEL GIBSON "PROFESSES" HIS OLD TIME CATHOLIC DOGMA. I THINK ALL THE JEWISH HOLLYWOOD MOGULS, AND WE ALL KNOW THAT SOME ARE JEWISH--SPIELBERG, EISNER, ET AL. SHOULD GET TOGETHER AND "INTERPRET" A NEW RENDITION OF JESUS, THE MAN--NOT G-D, NOR THE SON OF G-D. G-D IS ONE, UNDIVIDED AND CANNOT BE "KILLED" BY MAN WHO IS A LIMITED CREATION. THE RESPONSE OF JEWS OF ALL STRIPES SHOULD BE TO WEAR THEIR JEWISHNESS EVER MORE PROUDLY AND REFUTE AND FIGHT BACK THE "BIG LIE" BLOOD LIBEL. HEY, IF MEL GIBSON CAN PROFESS HIS LOVE OF JESUS--I WILL ONE UP HIM(NO PUN INTENDED)--I LOVE THE ONE AND ONLY, NOT JESUS. IT'S TIME, WE AS JEWS EXPRESSED PROACTIVELY THE LOVE OF THE ULTIMATE UNITY AND SHOUT IT OUT SO THE REAL MOSHIACH WILL COME. SHOUT!!

(3)
manuel,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Brace for the worst

I have read many forums posted on the internet "The Passion" websites

The most deleterous effect that this movie will have towards us, the Jews, is that many devoted Christians are expecting to watch it, believing that they are going to contemplate "the untold truth" and that Gibson was divinely inspired

They even thanked him for doing such a movie

(2)
Beverly Kurtin,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

Superstition

I’ve not seen the movie and don’t plan to. To support this distortion of the Christian Testament (which they call the “New” Testament) is to support intellectual dishonesty and an attack on my own people.

The reason that this film will be successful is because even Christians of good will are being told that “non-Christian groups, i.e., those who are controlled by the devil” are fighting this movie. In other words, if you don’t support—blindly—this misrepresentation of what is in their own books, you are of the devil. To whom are they referring?

The mislead leaders of most evangelical groups are teaming up to push this warped version of their Gospels. Why? They expect to win converts to their various forms of the religion even if the producer is a maverick Catholic. Any other time they’d be willing to damn all Catholics to their theological place of eternal punishment. The irony of the evangelicals supporting this film is lost on all of them.

The bottom line is that most people of religion are content to let the preachers, rabbis, etc. TELL them what to believe. Rather than pull out a book and READ it, they just sit back and listen to the opinions, albeit educated opinions, but opinions nonetheless that someone spoon feeds them.

Fear and ignorance of us has been responsible for so much shed blood that the total is incalculable. France seems to have no qualms about the neo-Jew hatred that has cropped up on their streets. All of Europe thinks that Israel is the greatest threat to world peace. Many Americans are leaning toward Europe on this Mel Gibson’s film seems, in my opinion only, to be like a spark in a world covered with aerosol gasoline.

I will boycott the film.

(1)
Anonymous,
February 20, 2004 12:00 AM

His father is a clearcut anti-semite

From the NY Daily News: Mel's father has gone on an explosive rant against Jews - claiming they fabricated the Holocaust and are conspiring to take over the world. "They're after one world religion and one world government," Hutton Gibson, 85, said in a radio interview that will air Monday night.

"That's why they've attacked the Catholic Church so strongly, to ultimately take control over it by their doctrine." In the bizarre interview, Gibson also said Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan should be lynched and called for the government to be overthrown. The movie star's father has made outrageous statements about the Holocaust and Jewish conspiracies before.

…Some critics say the movie blames Jews for the death of Christ and will provoke anti-Semitism, and they question why Mel Gibson hasn't denounced his father's views.

Some of his most outrageous rants focused on the millions of Jews exterminated by Adolf Hitler. "They claimed that there were 6.2 million in Poland before the war, and they claimed after the war there were 200,000 - therefore he must have killed 6 million of them," he said. "They simply got up and left! They were all over the Bronx and Brooklyn and Sydney, Australia, and Los Angeles." He said the Germans did not have enough gas to cremate 6 million people and that the concentration camps were just "work camps." "It's all - maybe not all fiction - but most of it is," he said.

Gibson repeatedly smeared prominent Jews as money-grubbing power-mongers. Greenspan tells us what to do. Someone should take him out and hang him." He even belittled the Pope's reported endorsement of "The Passion," recounting how Mel referred to the pontiff as an "ass." Gibson reserved most of his vitriol for Judaism, asking: "Is the Jew still actively anti-Christian? He is, for by being a Jew, he is anti-everyone else."